Madison - Archery hunters may have a better shot at bagging a buck, as a bill moves forward to let them use crossbows.The state Senate approved a bipartisan bill yesterday that would allow hunters to use crossbows during bow deer season.Currently only physically disabled hunters or hunters over age 65 can use crossbows. The bill's supporters argue allowing open crossbow hunting would expand hunting opportunities.
The bill would also spare disabled hunters the required physical examination needed to get a permit.Some bow hunters worry allowing crossbows would taint traditional bow hunting.The Senate passed the bill by a voice vote.The bill includes a two-year pilot program for open crossbow hunting starting next year. It now heads back to the Assembly, which passed a nearly identical version of the proposal unanimously in June.(Copyright 2013 Associated Press - All Rights Reserved)